I truly cannot recommend this book enough. This was a fascinating memoir of a woman who grew up in a patriarchal society, expected to obey her father's every word, and freed herself to live the life she dreamed of.

This book describes itself as focusing on the relationship between Rachlin and her sister, who lived a very unhappy life until her premature death. But to be honest, it seemed more just about Rachlin's life. Her sister was important to the book, but not the true focus in my opinion. She seemed a very secondary element. So maybe temper your expectations there, but I don't think that's a negative thing.

Rachlin starts her life living as her aunt's daughter, as her aunt was unable to bear children. Her aunt was a devout Muslim and then she goes to live with her more modern biological parents, never feeling like she quite fits in anywhere. A lot of this book focuses on family and home, who counts as your family and what makes a home. It's a fascinating story and Rachlin is a great writer.

She weaves the history and culture into the storytelling incredibly well. As a reader, you get such a good idea of what's going on in Iran without it ever feeling like Rachlin has to pause her own narrative to do it. It's all tied together.

This book was great. Rachlin is a masterful writer and has such a great story to tell. It's heartbreaking and touching and an all around wonderful book. Definitely recommend you give this one a go.